Intro
Is Windows Explorer crashing repeatedly? Learn how to troubleshoot and fix the issue with our comprehensive guide. Discover the causes behind Windows Explorer crashes, such as corrupted files, outdated drivers, and malware. Get step-by-step solutions, including restarting explorer.exe, running System File Checker, and updating Windows to resolve the problem.
Windows Explorer is a crucial component of the Windows operating system, providing a graphical user interface for managing files, folders, and other system resources. However, like any other software, Windows Explorer can be prone to errors and crashes, causing frustration and disrupting productivity. If Windows Explorer keeps crashing on your system, don't worry – we've got you covered. In this article, we'll explore the possible causes of Windows Explorer crashes and provide effective fixes and solutions to get your system up and running smoothly.
Why Does Windows Explorer Keep Crashing?
Before we dive into the fixes, it's essential to understand the possible causes of Windows Explorer crashes. Some common reasons include:
- Corrupted system files or registry entries
- Malware or virus infections
- Conflicting software or driver updates
- Insufficient system resources (RAM, CPU, or disk space)
- Faulty hardware components
- Outdated or incompatible software
Troubleshooting Steps to Fix Windows Explorer Crashes
To resolve Windows Explorer crashes, follow these step-by-step troubleshooting steps:
1. Restart Your System
Sometimes, a simple reboot can resolve the issue. Restart your system and see if Windows Explorer starts working normally.
2. Run the System File Checker (SFC) Tool
The SFC tool scans and replaces corrupted system files. To run the SFC tool:
- Press the Windows key + X and select Command Prompt (Admin)
- Type
sfc /scannowand press Enter - Wait for the scan to complete and restart your system
3. Run the DISM Tool
The DISM tool (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) can help fix corrupted system files and registry entries. To run the DISM tool:
- Press the Windows key + X and select Command Prompt (Admin)
- Type
dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealthand press Enter - Wait for the scan to complete and restart your system
4. Update Windows and Drivers
Ensure your system is up-to-date with the latest Windows updates and driver installations. To update Windows:
- Press the Windows key + I and select Update & Security
- Click on Check for updates and follow the prompts
To update drivers:
- Press the Windows key + X and select Device Manager
- Expand the categories and right-click on each device to select Update driver
5. Disable Recently Installed Software
If you've recently installed new software, try disabling or uninstalling it to see if it resolves the issue.
6. Run a Virus Scan
Malware or virus infections can cause Windows Explorer crashes. Run a full system scan using your antivirus software to detect and remove any malware.
7. Check for Corrupted System Files
Corrupted system files can cause Windows Explorer crashes. To check for corrupted system files:
- Press the Windows key + X and select Command Prompt (Admin)
- Type
chkdsk C:(replace C: with the drive letter of your system drive) and press Enter - Wait for the scan to complete and restart your system
8. Reset Windows Explorer Settings
Resetting Windows Explorer settings can resolve crashes caused by corrupted settings. To reset Windows Explorer settings:
- Press the Windows key + E to open Windows Explorer
- Click on the View tab and select Options
- Click on the View tab and select Reset Folders
9. Perform a System Restore
If you've made recent changes to your system, you can try performing a System Restore to revert to a previous state. To perform a System Restore:
- Press the Windows key + S and type System Restore
- Select Create a restore point and follow the prompts
10. Reinstall Windows Explorer
If none of the above steps resolve the issue, you may need to reinstall Windows Explorer. To reinstall Windows Explorer:
- Press the Windows key + X and select Command Prompt (Admin)
- Type
dism /online /remove-package /packagename:Microsoft-Windows-Explorerand press Enter - Wait for the uninstallation to complete and restart your system
- To reinstall Windows Explorer, type
dism /online /add-package /packagename:Microsoft-Windows-Explorerand press Enter
Preventing Future Windows Explorer Crashes
To prevent future Windows Explorer crashes, follow these best practices:
- Regularly update your system and software
- Run virus scans and malware removal tools
- Avoid installing software from untrusted sources
- Use a reliable antivirus program
- Back up your data regularly
- Avoid overheating your system by keeping it clean and dust-free
Conclusion
Windows Explorer crashes can be frustrating, but by following these troubleshooting steps and implementing preventive measures, you can resolve the issue and ensure your system runs smoothly. Remember to regularly update your system, run virus scans, and avoid installing software from untrusted sources to prevent future crashes.
Why does Windows Explorer keep crashing on my system?
+Windows Explorer crashes can be caused by corrupted system files, malware or virus infections, conflicting software or driver updates, insufficient system resources, faulty hardware components, or outdated or incompatible software.
How can I fix Windows Explorer crashes?
+To fix Windows Explorer crashes, try restarting your system, running the System File Checker (SFC) tool, running the DISM tool, updating Windows and drivers, disabling recently installed software, running a virus scan, checking for corrupted system files, resetting Windows Explorer settings, performing a System Restore, or reinstalling Windows Explorer.
How can I prevent future Windows Explorer crashes?
+To prevent future Windows Explorer crashes, regularly update your system and software, run virus scans and malware removal tools, avoid installing software from untrusted sources, use a reliable antivirus program, back up your data regularly, and avoid overheating your system by keeping it clean and dust-free.